These days, sustainability is no longer just a trend. It’s a way of life taking root in every corner of our world, especially how we build and live. As we all strive for a greener planet, the construction industry transforms the way buildings come to life by advocating for practices that reduce environmental impact, enhance efficiency, and promote healthier living spaces. This is exactly what EDGE is aiming for.
What is EDGE?
EDGE is an innovation by the GBCI designed to steer the construction industry towards more resource-efficient and environmentally friendly building practices. It provides a measurable standard for assessing and certifying buildings that significantly reduce energy use, water consumption, and embodied energy in materials. The EDGE certification is aimed at developers, owners, and construction management firms who aspire to prove their dedication to green practices and to make an indelible mark on the sustainable landscape of the built environment.
What’s The Difference?
Now, you might be wondering what’s the difference between EDGE and the other green building certifications. While EDGE certification focuses on making buildings more resource-efficient with a specific eye on energy, water, and materials, it's part of a broader ecosystem of green building standards that include WELL and LEED. WELL certification centers on the health and well-being of the building's occupants, emphasizing aspects such as air quality, water purity, and access to natural light. On the other hand, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) takes a more holistic view, evaluating the overall environmental impact of buildings, including sustainable site development, materials selection, and energy efficiency.
Basically, WELL looks after the people inside, LEED focuses on the building and its environmental impact as a whole, and EDGE zeroes in on the efficiency of resources used in the construction and operation. Understanding these differences can help construction project management firms, builders, and owners choose the certification that best aligns with their project's goals and values.
Environmental Impact
EDGE certification mainly aims to mitigate the environmental impacts of new construction and major renovations. By adopting EDGE standards, projects significantly lower their carbon footprint, contributing to the global effort against climate change. This initiative is crucial in urban settings, where the density of construction projects presents both a challenge and an opportunity for sustainable development.
Economic Incentives
Beyond the environmental benefits, EDGE-certified buildings offer economic advantages. Reduced energy and water usage translate into lower utility bills, yielding substantial savings over the building's lifecycle. Furthermore, EDGE buildings often enjoy higher occupancy rates and increased rental values, appealing to tenants and investors alike who are increasingly eco-conscious.
Social Equity
Sustainability encompasses more than environmental preservation; it includes social equity. EDGE-certified projects often lead to healthier indoor environments, enhancing occupants' comfort and well-being. This holistic approach to building design and operation fosters a sense of community and contributes to the overall quality of life.
Achieving EDGE Certification
The path to obtaining EDGE certification involves a clear set of steps, beginning with the design phase. Projects must use the EDGE software to assess the most cost-effective ways to incorporate green features. Following this, an independent audit verifies that the project meets the minimum standard of 20% reduction across energy use, water use, and embodied energy in materials. Successful projects are then awarded the prestigious EDGE certification, symbolizing their leadership in green building.
A Greener Tomorrow, One EDGE At A Time
As the construction industry continues to evolve, EDGE certification will become an image of ecological responsibility, economic viability, and social equity. For construction management firms, developers, and building owners, EDGE offers a chance to build a legacy of sustainability for future generations.
Got a project in mind? Join JCVA today to advocate for sustainable construction practices! Send us an email at technical@jcvassociates.ph or visit www.jcvassociates.ph/well-leed-berde-consultancy to learn more about our eco-friendly construction services.
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